According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 501,000 basketball-related
injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms in 2009.

Common Basketball Injuries

The fast-paced action of basketball can cause a wide range of injuries, most often
to the foot, ankle, and knee. Sprained ankles and knee ligament tears are common.
Basketball players are also at risk for jammed fingers and stress fractures in the
foot and lower leg.

Several strategies can help to prevent basketball injuries — from careful inspection
of the play area to using proper passing techniques.

Maintain fitness. Be sure you are in good physical condition at the start of basketball season. During
the off-season, stick to a balanced fitness program that incorporates aerobic exercise,
strength training, and flexibility. If you are out of shape at the start of the season,
gradually increase your activity level and slowly build back up to a higher fitness
level.

Warm up and stretch. Always take time to warm up and stretch. Research studies have shown that cold muscles
are more prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, stationary cycling or running
or walking in place for 3 to 5 minutes. Then slowly and gently stretch, holding each
stretch for 30 seconds.

Hydrate. Even mild levels of dehydration can hurt athletic performance. If you have not had
enough fluids, your body will not be able to effectively cool itself through sweat
and evaporation. A general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of non-caffeinated
fluid 2 hours before exercise. Drinking an additional 8 ounces of water or sports
drink right before exercise is also helpful. While you are exercising, break for an
8 oz. cup of water every 20 minutes.

Coaches should be knowledgeable about first aid and be able to administer it for minor
injuries, such as facial cuts, bruises, or minor strains and sprains.

Be prepared for emergencies. All coaches should have a plan to reach medical personnel
for help with more significant injuries such as concussions, dislocations, contusions,
sprains, abrasions, and fractures.

Because many young athletes are focusing on just one sport and are training year-round,
doctors are seeing an increase in overuse injuries. The American Academy of Orthopaedic
Surgeons has partnered with STOP Sports Injuries to help educate parents, coaches,
and athletes about how to prevent overuse injuries. Specific tips to prevent overuse
injuries include:

Limit the number of teams in which your child is playing in one season. Kids who play
on more than one team are especially at risk for overuse injuries.

Do not allow your child to play one sport year round — taking regular breaks and playing
other sports is essential to skill development and injury prevention.

AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced
herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended
to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance
should consult his or her orthopaedic surgeon, or locate one in your area through
the AAOS "Find an Orthopaedist" program on this website.